Northern Territory government backs dog treats startup with innovation grant

A pet food startup making dog treats from feral buffalo in the Northern Territory (NT) has banked around $30,000 to develop the idea thanks to the NT government’s Innovation Grants program.

Peco Pet Food makes Buff Jerky and Buff Jellies treats for dogs. The startup will expand its range to Buff Bites an all-natural gelatin treat infused with concentrated collagen. The grant will enable the startup to utilise freeze drying technology to create Buff Bites, retaining up to 96% of nutrients in the treat.

The Innovation program offers up to $30,000 in government grant funding, as well as up to $10,000 for commercialisation expenses and $2,000 in advisory services.

Peco Pet Food is sharing a total of $115,000 in funding in the latest grant round with mental health therapy program MyEmDR, the International Solar Boat Challenge, and Larboard, a livestock castration device combining cutting and pain relief in a single device.

Kristen McKechnie, founder of Peco Pet Food, said her idea came from a passion for conservation and a desire to make a real difference in the Northern Territory.

“By creating nutritious, all-natural dog treats from wild-caught buffalo, we’re not only supporting pet health but also actively contributing to the protection of our local eco-systems,” she said.

“With this support, we can invest in the specialised equipment needed to bring our unique freeze-dried treats to market and scale production. It allows us to accelerate our launch, create local jobs, and expand our reach across Australia—opening doors to partnerships with stockists, vets, and conservation groups.”

Peco is Australia’s first pet treats business exclusively using wild-caught game in its products

NT business minister Robyn Cahill visited Peco’s market stall and meet McKenchnie and her dog, Lyla.

“The Innovation Program is driving the commercialisation of products and services in the Territory, with this round supporting the expansion of Peco, which could in turn lead to the establishment of a local pet food industry in the Top End,” she said.